# Volkswagen and Chinese EV maker XPeng collaborated on software for China's electric vehicles.

*robotics · news · 2026-04-27 · Japan Today*

## Key points

- Volkswagen and XPeng developed car software in 18 months, much faster than Germany's usual timeline.
- Foreign automakers increasingly rely on Chinese partners' technology and EV platforms for new models.
- China-developed vehicles like Nissan N7 and Dacia Spring are now exported to global markets.
- Foreign brands' competitiveness improvements are largely attributed to in-China R&D and technology partnerships.
- China's integrated automotive ecosystem is difficult for foreign automakers to replicate outside the country.

**Companies:** Volkswagen, XPeng, BMW, Audi, Nissan, Renault, Ford
**Countries:** China, Germany, Japan, France

[Read the full story on Japan Today](https://japantoday.com/category/business/%27joint-venture-in-reverse%27-foreign-carmakers-seek-edge-with-china-partners)

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